Women launches policy document
BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
GIZO
WESTERN province Women’s Empowerment and Transformation Policy for Development was officially launched in Gizo, Western Province yesterday.
Women leaders from all 26 wards in the province and women’s organizations in Gizo, and representatives from UN Women/ UNPBF, the Western Province Government and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs witnessed the launching.
This is a very proud moment for the women of Western Province, having their own Women’s Empowerment and Transformation Policy for Development. A policy that provides clear direction for the province to address issues affecting women and girls, and their participation and inclusion in development in the province.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, Hon Oelyn Muala said this policy comes about because of the high regard the Western Provincial Government has for women.
“I wish to thank my predecessor former Minister for Women Hon. Leong Mamu, for the initiative to develop this policy; and the support and commitment throughout the whole process of its consultation and eventually its endorsement by the previous government.”
FAMOA Women’s Council Mrs Maria Goretti Kotaru.
“I want to acknowledge the contribution by women and men from the following communities that were identified and consulted; Seghe in the Marovo lagoon, Ugele, Munda, Gizo, Vonunu, and Maleai in the Shortlands,” said Mrs Muala.
Muala said the wide consultative approach ensured this policy is well informed especially the participation of rural women and men to ensure fair representation of voices contributing to the policy.
“I want to also thank the chiefs, village elders, church leaders, women leaders, women groups, youths and families for offering your time and contributions that has provided the direction for this policy”.
Western Province Women Desk Officer Ms Lisi Wong said Women in Western Province marks another milestone and history in its own making.
The women’s policy was endorsed by the Western Province Government in May and supported by UN Women through the UN Peace building Fund (UNPBF). Other partnering stakeholders are the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs and the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening.
